Situated on a corner in the historic district of downtown St. Charles, Town House Books is the kind of bookstore that no bibliophile can resist walking past. It’s been in business since 1974. I’ve been meaning to visit this bookstore for years and I’m so glad I had this opportunity.

I arrived shortly after their opening hour of 9 am and was greeted by a friendly bookseller. Aromatic scents wafted into the bookstore from the attached cafe.

Shelf talkers are sprinkled throughout each section of the store. The above was the first to catch my eye. The Dud Avacado by Elaine Dundy. I’d never heard of it. Have you read it?

There’s also a plethora of face outs and books on display. Prairie Silence by Melanie Hoffert was one of my favorite reads of 2013.

I was pleasantly surprised by the diversity of sections the store had as well as their depth. They carry the latest releases, staples, classics, and perhaps some books that are out of print.

These are the books I bought (links to Goodreads):

• Stoner by John Williams
• Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
• The Dud Avocado by Elaine Dundy
• Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris

I hope Town House Books had a great Small Business Saturday! Check out their website at townhousebooks.com and if you’re in the area it’s worth a trip.